Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Wilson
Published on 2024-04-11 06:45:54
The Center for the Exchange of Intellectual Opinions (CEIO) expressed deep gratitude towards Mr. Lakshmi Mittal, the Executive Chairman of ArcelorMittal Global, for his recent visit to Liberia on April 11, 2024. CEIO, based in Monrovia, highlighted the importance of strong partnerships in driving Liberia’s development forward.
Following a significant meeting between President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and Mr. Lakshmi Mittal, discussions centered around bolstering Liberia’s investment climate. ArcelorMittal Liberia’s commitment to investing $1.4 billion to expand its operations to a total of $3 billion in Liberia was seen as a positive step towards economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development by CEIO.
Dax Elliott, the Chairman of CEIO, commended President Boakai’s dedication to sustainable development through initiatives like the Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism (ARREST) Agenda. The meeting between President Boakai and Mr. Mittal showcased a promising partnership and a 50% increase in investment in Liberia.
Furthermore, CEIO emphasized the need to resolve outstanding issues in the 3rd AML mineral development agreement to ensure that Liberians benefit from the additional 2000 direct jobs promised in the amendment. The organization called for transparency and accountability in natural resource management, urging a swift conclusion to the long-pending Third Amendment.
CEIO lauded ArcelorMittal’s commitment to investing in vocational training programs and supporting technical education institutes to empower Liberian youth with essential skills. The organization stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in enriching Liberia’s talent pool and driving socio-economic progress across the nation.
Notably, Mr. Mittal and the ArcelorMittal Global group pledged to support initiatives aimed at combating the trafficking and consumption of illicit drugs in Liberia. CEIO commended this commitment, highlighting the importance of community programs to raise awareness about the risks associated with substance abuse and safeguarding livelihoods.
CEIO underlined the significance of multi-stakeholder collaborations, emphasizing the need for partnerships between the government, private sector, and civil society organizations to address Liberia’s challenges, particularly the high unemployment rate. The organization called for continued dialogue, transparency, and accountability in governance and investment to protect the interests of all Liberians.
In conclusion, CEIO reaffirmed its support for initiatives promoting sustainable development, economic prosperity, and social equity in Liberia. The organization urged collective efforts towards building a nation where every Liberian can thrive, leaving a legacy of progress and prosperity for future generations.
Read the original article on New Republic Liberia
